Japanese Cutting-Edge
Solutions for Metalworking
Japanese Cutting-Edge
Solutions for Metalworking
Exhibition
November 27, 2024
By: Atsushi Kuwasaki, Staff Editor, SEISANZAI Japan
The AMB 2024 machine tool exhibition was held from September 10-14 in Stuttgart, Germany. With 1,244 exhibitors from 28 countries and regions and 65,584 visitors from 78 countries, the event demonstrated its growing importance to the global machine tool industry. AMB has emerged as a key platform for the launch of new products and solutions, with numerous world premieres presented at this year’s event.
AMB is a biennial machine tool exhibition held in even-numbered years in Stuttgart, Germany. Since its first edition in 1982, the event will be held for the 21st time in 2024. The European market, particularly Germany, is experiencing sluggish economic sentiment. According to Keichi Kuno, Vice President of Okuma Europe, “There is a wait-and-see mood for capital investment across the board, but we anticipate a recovery trend to start by the end of this year”.
While exhibitor and visitor numbers showed only modest growth on the previous show, AMB’s role as a business-focused show was evident. Many exhibitors dedicated substantial booth space to negotiation areas, and the sight of intense discussions between attendees and exhibitors was common throughout the venue.
Often perceived as a “local German show”, AMB has steadily grown in importance. Around 70% of exhibitors and 80% of visitors are from Germany, but its strategic location in Stuttgart – a manufacturing hub – adds to its appeal. Stuttgart is home to major automotive manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, much like Aichi Prefecture in Japan is home to Toyota.
Its proximity to Stuttgart Airport and ease of access for professionals from German-speaking countries further enhances its attractiveness. As an executive from a European peripherals manufacturer commented, “AMB attracts many local professionals who are responsible for selecting and purchasing tools, making it especially important for local tooling and equipment manufacturers.”
This unique positioning was reflected in the significant number of product debuts at AMB 2024. Some exhibitors showcased identical products at both AMB and the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS 2024) in Chicago, USA, to reach audiences in both Europe and North America.
Automation and labor shortages drive innovation
The automation trend continues to expand at AMB, fueled by labor shortages across Europe. Automated workpiece handling solutions were prominently featured. Nearly all of the major machine tool manufacturers exhibited at least one automation system, while many system integrators focused on workpiece automation technologies.
Unsurprisingly, AMB 2024 highlighted the strong presence of German machine tool builders.
DMG MORI promoted its MX concept
DMG MORI, with its dual identity as a German and Japanese company, unveiled 20 models, including five world premieres, and promoted its Machining Transformation (MX) concept. MX integrates process consolidation, automation, digital transformation (DX) and green transformation (GX).
A highlight was the completely redesigned “NLX 2500|700 2nd Generation”, a turning center featuring the latest MX technology. Dr. Tatsuhiko Kuriya, DMG MORI Executive Officer, commented, “This model integrates user feedback and incorporates the latest MX developments.”
A large crowd gathered to watch the machining demonstration on the Hermle C 42 U MT 5-axis machining center
GROB-WERKE introduced the “G920F5”, a twin-spindle, 5-axis machining center designed for large aluminum parts produced by giga-casting. It highlighted the system’s spindle independence, which enables complex machining without interference.
HELLER targeted aerospace markets with its five-axis “F 5000”, which features a proprietary swivel head for integrated component machining.
Hermle featured the “C 42 U MT”, a 5-axis machining center with turning capabilities, which demonstrated 13 machining techniques in a single demonstration.
Gühring highlighted small diameter tools for micro machining
German manufacturers of cutting tools and peripherals also made a strong impression.
Gühring highlighted small-diameter tools for precision machining in molds and medical applications as part of its strategy to diversify beyond the automotive sector. Sales Manager Ralf Winterholer noted, “While the adoption of electric vehicles has impacted our automotive sales, we are looking to grow in other sectors.”
Similarly, MAPAL focused on solutions for machining aluminum alloys in industries such as electric vehicles and aerospace.
Peripheral equipment manufacturer WILHELM KÖNIG MTM showcased custom clamping systems that attracted attention for their high repeatability and custom designs.
Japanese exhibitors also used AMB as a platform to showcase innovations.
Yamazaki Mazak introduced the “HQR-200/3 NEO”, a three-turret, two-spindle CNC lathe designed to significantly increase productivity. Dr. Taku Yamazaki, Executive Officer, emphasized, “This is our first-ever product world premiere at AMB.”
Okuma’s automation system proposal was in the spotlight
Okuma exhibited seven models, focusing on automation with its “LU3000 EX” CNC lathe integrated with a robot system developed by a European system integrator, demonstrating advanced automation.
Meanwhile, OSG introduced its pre-launch “GREEN TAP” to the European audience, a thread rolling tap redesigned to further reduce the risk of breakage.
Dr. Masahiko Mori, President, DMG MORI
Dr. Masahiko Mori, President, DMG MORI
“The current order value from German-speaking regions has declined by about 15% in Euro terms compared to the previous year. Concerns such as excessive inventory, rising ocean transportation costs due to the Ukraine conflict, and rising interest rates pose challenges. However, demand from industries such as semiconductors, medical, aerospace, and pumps has been gradually increasing.
Our company has built a global framework for direct sales and direct service. In Europe, as in other key markets, we are focusing on strengthening our service strategy, including significantly expanding the number of service engineers.
Approximately half of our revenue comes from the European market, including German-speaking regions, making it one of our most important markets. Accordingly, the importance of the AMB in Germany is immense for us. At this exhibition, we expressed our recently promoted MX concept throughout our booth.”
Dr. Taku Yamazaki, Executive Officer, Yamazaki Mazak
Dr. Taku Yamazaki, Executive Officer, Yamazaki Mazak
“The European market overall is experiencing sluggish economic sentiment. As a result, the number of orders and inquiries has been trending downward. However, we have secured large-scale projects from long-standing customers, and in monetary terms, the figures remain flat.
In April this year, we established the ‘EARC’ – a new research hub for technical development – as a direct subsidiary of our Japanese headquarters within our German subsidiary. The EARC has two main functions: first, to serve as a division that co-develops cutting-edge technologies with universities and partner companies; and second, to provide technical support for large-scale projects across Europe, while identifying new technological seeds and market needs.
At this exhibition, we showcased the latest digital twin technology jointly developed by EARC and RWTH Aachen University.”
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